Thursday, February 7, 2008

Run away from the Frump

Do you remember my New Year's resolution? I haven't forgot. I am training for the 5K race that I resolved to run. I expected this training to push me beyond my comfort zone. I expected to developed a love/hate relationship with the treadmill. I expected soreness and aching knees. I have not been disappointed.

What I didn't expect was physical improvements so early in my training and increased self confidence. Mrs. Fussypants is kicking off the weekend with her first Fight the Frump, this is a perfect opportunity to talk about my training program.

The Program

The goal is to go from running one mile to four miles in sixteen weeks. Here is how it breaks down:

Weeks 1 & 2: Monday - 1 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 10 minute runs
Week 3: Monday - 1.5 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 12 minute runs
Week 4: Monday - 1.5 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 15 minute runs
Week 5: Monday - 2 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 18 minute runs
Week 6: Monday - 2 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 20 minute runs
Week 7: Monday - 2.5 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 22 minute runs
Week 8: Monday - 2.5 mile run, Wednesday & Friday - 25 minute runs

I think you are all smart enough to figure out the pattern here.

The Benefits

You can run anywhere. The supplies that you need for this activity are already in your closet. A good workout can be achieved in very little time. There are so many reasons why running is a great way to exercise.

I am in week five of my training program. The thought of running four miles without stopping still overwhelms me. Two weeks ago, I didn't think I would be able to run a mile in less than ten minutes. Then I did it. I ran a mile in ten minutes and then continued to run for another half mile. I cannot explain how satisfying that was. I felt terrific. I accomplished something that I thought would be very difficult for me. My success had a tremendous impact on my self-esteem.

You know what else happened? This -

My tushie is tighter. Five weeks to a tighter tushie. Need I say more?

24 comments:

Mackenzies Momma said...

I need to get a good workout program going but around here running is hazardous to your health. We have no sidewalks(we live in the country) and the drivers are maniacs(see friday's late post).

Unknown said...

Nice bum!!! Running is the bomb for bums!

Irene said...

Way to go!!!!! That is so great!

I love running for those very reasons. You don't need any (or very little) equipment. You can get out, run and be home in a very short time. The physical improvements are noticed quite quickly. But the BEST part is the feeling of accomplishment and confidence!

Anonymous said...

Tushie pics! Yay!
I'm due to have my 6th baby in April. Maybe by the summer I can start jogging a little. Then running. Yeah! And lose lots of weight, run a marathon and and and. Or not.
You had me really motivated for minute there though.

Mrs. Fussy Fussypants said...

Your bum looks great already! When you start posting more photo over the weeks I'm gonna get wa-ay jealous! ;)

Running?
~fussy bows down~

Never could do it.

Love ya, Babe!

SAHMmy Says said...

Wow! I really need to start a real exercise program--just chasing the kiddos around does not count as running and certainly does not tighten my behind!

krissy said...

Yeah baby! Way to fight the frump!!!!

Your ass is smoking girl! Is that weird that I just said that! I'm gonna have to say "yeah".

Just My Type said...

That's inspiration right there!

Great post. Great hiney!

Eternal Sunshine said...

Way to go!

I'm inspired!

Amy said...

Awesome girl!!
I for one, just can't run. Never could. I'm surrounded by a bunch of runners but it just doesn't work for me. So hats off to you!
One day, I'm going to get back in the gym and have a great tush too!

Shannon said...

Way to fill out a pair of jeans:) But let me get this straight... you're running and there's no one chasing you? Hmmm...

OHmommy said...

Congrats on the tush. When you get to your goal... let me know cause I am obsessed with cute bootie jeans that will make your tush look ever more amazing then it already is. You will not be diappointed. ANd neither will the mister.

Unknown said...

Ima get me some spandex so I can run with less jiggle and I'm JOINING YOU! Nice bum.

Anonymous said...

so basically, you run twice a week? not bad. and do you run the full mile or is it a combination of walking and running? as someone who hasn't exercised in sometime, i think i'll find it a bit challenging to run my first mile without stopping to catch my breath!

vicvic said...

Excellent! I can't run - I do the treadmill thing and jog for quick intervals and am thrilled that I can do that! This is great inspiration though to get back to it!

Mamarazzi said...

You. Are. Awesome.

Kidzmama said...

That's a great schedule. And results already! That's awesome. I can't get on my treadmill yet, but started doing Pilates again. Five days a week no matter what. The little ones are slowly getting used to it. Keep us posted on the tushie results.

ConverseMomma said...

I love running. I love running almost as much as I love daydreaming about running my tongue across Clive Owen's navel. Actually, I think I love running more. It's my drug.

Cute Tush, toots!

LunaNik said...

Nice!

You go girl!

I give you so much credit.

LunaNik is a kick-boxing, yoga practising, weight lifting fool...but LunaNik DOES NOT RUN...unless chased.

Kellan said...

How cute! I'm glad you are running and seeing great progress - keep it up! Have a great weekend - Kellan

Amy said...

Anon: Actually I run 3 times a week. You can combine walking and running until you reach a mile. Over time the running will become eaiser and eventually you will be able to run the full mile.

pb&j in a bowl said...

You go girl. I knew you could do it!

Texasholly said...

Yeah! What a great idea and the butt to match.

Ann said...

WTG! That would be my "fight the frump" tip too--watch out, it's addictive :) I'm training for a mini-marathon in May...watch out world!